Global PCR Films and Foils market was valued at US $79 Mn in 2022 and is expected to reach US $ 127.8 Mn by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period 2023 – 2030.
PCR Films and Foils, derived from post-consumer recycled plastic or metal sources, are employed in the creation of sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging solutions. Their primary purpose is to mitigate the environmental impact typically associated with the production of packaging materials. These versatile materials can be crafted from various plastics (such as PET, HDPE, LDPE, PP, PS) or metals (like aluminum, steel, tin) and find application in diverse packaging contexts across industries. Their design emphasizes the reduction of the ecological footprint in packaging by incorporating recycled content, thereby diminishing the demand for virgin raw materials and conserving valuable resources.

As a result, PCR Films and Foils have gained widespread acceptance across a multitude of sectors. In the food industry, these materials serve a crucial role in packaging snacks, confectionery, frozen foods, and dry goods, offering a balance between sustainability and product preservation. Pharmaceutical and medical sectors rely on them for tamper-evident packaging and safeguarding medications and medical devices. Personal care and cosmetics brands have turned to PCR materials to package items such as shampoos, lotions, and cosmetics. Furthermore, the industrial sector employs PCR Films and Foils in a diverse array of applications, ranging from insulating materials to labels. The growing adoption of PCR Films and Foils underscores their adaptability and the environmental benefits they bring, aligning harmoniously with the global drive for more sustainable packaging alternatives.

Some of the benefits of PCR Films and Foils in Packaging Industry include:

• Promotion of Environmental Sustainability – The foremost advantage of PCR films and foils lies in their contribution to environmental sustainability. They alleviate the need for fresh raw materials, such as virgin plastics or metals, thereby conserving precious natural resources and diminishing the environmental consequences associated with their manufacturing.
• Reduction of Waste – By harnessing recycled materials, PCR films and foils play a pivotal role in diverting plastic and metal waste away from landfills and oceans. This aligns seamlessly with endeavours aimed at curbing plastic pollution and advocating responsible waste management.
• Enhanced Cost Competitiveness – As recycling technologies advance and economies of scale are achieved, PCR materials become increasingly cost-competitive when compared to traditional packaging materials, rendering them an appealing choice for businesses

COVID -19 Impact 

The COVID-19 pandemic exerted a multifaceted influence on the PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) films and foils sector. On a positive note, it significantly heightened global consciousness regarding sustainability and the significance of eco-friendly packaging. As environmental concerns escalated, both businesses and consumers displayed a heightened interest in sustainable packaging alternatives, notably PCR materials. This heightened awareness generated an increased market demand for products featuring environmentally responsible packaging, underscoring the pivotal role of PCR films and foils. Concurrently, certain regions and governmental bodies, during the pandemic, placed an amplified emphasis on sustainability, enacting or reinforcing regulations aimed at recycling and minimizing plastic waste.

This regulatory focus served as an additional catalyst for the adoption of PCR materials in packaging, aligning harmoniously with broader sustainability objectives. However, the pandemic also introduced challenges for the PCR films and foils industry. Notably, disruptions in the supply chain emerged as a significant concern, affecting the availability of recycled materials utilized in PCR films and foils production. Lockdowns, restrictions, and logistical hurdles impeded the sourcing of sufficient PCR feedstock, disrupting the production process and potentially causing delays and complications within the supply chain. Furthermore, manufacturing facilities across various sectors experienced operational interruptions due to health and safety measures, resulting in diminished capacities and temporary closures. 

Consequently, this had a direct impact on the production capacity of PCR films and foils, further complicating the industry's response to the pandemic. So, the COVID-19 pandemic wielded a dual effect on the PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) films and foils industry. It bolstered awareness of sustainability and garnered regulatory support, fostering heightened demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions. Concurrently, it posed challenges through supply chain disruptions and diminished manufacturing capabilities, emphasizing the industry's imperative need for resilience and adaptability.

Factors Driving the Market

Drivers

Growing environmental awareness and concerns about plastic waste

In recent years, there has been a notable surge in environmental consciousness and mounting concerns regarding the issue of plastic waste. The distressing environmental repercussions associated with plastic waste, ranging from its enduring presence in landfills and oceans to its transformation into harmful microplastics, have spurred governments, businesses, and individuals into action. Numerous countries have implemented regulations to restrict the use of single-use plastics, while businesses are increasingly embracing eco-friendly packaging and materials. Consumers are displaying heightened awareness of their choices, displaying a preference for reusable alternatives and lending support to brands committed to environmental responsibility. Innovative solutions, including biodegradable plastics and initiatives aimed at waste cleanup, are also gaining momentum. 

For instance, in 2022, a recent OECD report revealed that the world is generating twice as much plastic waste as it did two decades ago, with a majority of it either ending up in landfills, being incinerated, or seeping into the environment, with only 9% being successfully recycled. Almost half of this plastic waste originates from OECD countries. The annual per capita plastic waste generation varies from 221 kg in the United States and 114 kg in European OECD countries to an average of 69 kg in Japan and Korea. While most plastic pollution results from inadequate collection and disposal of larger plastic debris, known as microplastics, concerns also exist regarding the leakage of microplastics (synthetic polymers smaller than 5 mm in diameter) from various sources, including industrial plastic pellets, synthetic textiles, road markings, and tire wear.

Additionally, efforts to address sustainability challenges have gained momentum in various sectors. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) have jointly announced a Memorandum of Understanding, aligned with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with a primary focus on reducing problematic single-use plastic products and enhancing the circular use of plastics in the aviation industry. Furthermore, initiatives worldwide are taking creative approaches to raise awareness and tackle the issue of plastic pollution. In New York, an art project composed entirely of plastic waste is set to debut at the World Trade Center. 

In India, renowned actors and musicians have collaborated to create a music video and convey messages aimed at motivating more individuals to combat plastic pollution. Meanwhile, in Kazakhstan, a local music group named Great Steppe released a music video in commemoration of the day, shedding light on the environmental harm plaguing the Aral Sea. In addition, a UN-supported sustainable fashion and art event in Almaty showcased art pieces crafted from recycled materials.

Challenges

Adoption of single-use plastic impacts the growth of PCR films and Foils.

The extensive usage of single-use plastics has exerted an adverse influence on the expansion of Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) films and foils. As the market continues to be dominated by single-use plastics, including items such as bags, packaging, and disposable utensils, the demand for PCR materials, derived from recycled plastics, often experiences a decline. This phenomenon stems from the fact that the pervasive use of single-use plastics perpetuates a continuous requirement to produce virgin plastics, thereby diminishing the availability of post-consumer plastic feedstock for PCR films and foils. Consequently, the growth of sustainable and environmentally friendly PCR materials faces obstacles, as the industry contends with the allure of the convenience and cost-effectiveness associated with single-use plastics.

To facilitate the expansion of PCR films and foils, it becomes imperative to shift towards reducing the consumption of single-use plastics while simultaneously advocating for recycling and sustainable alternatives. For instance, in a report published by Ian Tiseo in March 2023, China emerged as the leading generator of single-use plastic waste in 2019, amassing a total of 25.4 million metric tons. Following closely behind was the United States, where an estimated 17.2 million metric tons of single-use plastic waste was produced. Australia, on the other hand, exhibited a lower net single-use plastic waste generation in 2019, recording 1.5 million metric tons. 

Nonetheless, it registered one of the highest rates of single-use plastic waste generation per capita, averaging 59 kilograms per person. However, several countries have initiated measures to ban the adoption of single-use plastics due to their detrimental environmental impact. For instance, India implemented rules on August 12, 2021, aimed at phasing out specific single-use plastic items with low utility and a propensity for littering. This phase-out, scheduled for completion by July 1, 2022, includes the elimination of lightweight plastic bags, plastic bud sticks, plastic sticks for balloons, plastic flags, candy sticks, ice-cream sticks, polystyrene, plastic plates, glasses, cutlery (comprising plastic forks, spoons, knives, and trays), as well as plastic stirrers.

Trends

Investments in recycling infrastructure and technologies

Market Players are making assertive commitments to incorporate higher levels of recycled content, minimize waste generation, boost recycling rates, and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. This commitment is not limited to individual companies or industry associations; it extends to collaborative initiatives, exemplified by the 70+ companies supporting The Recycling Partnership and the recently launched U.S. Plastics Pact. These enterprises recognize that achieving their goals necessitates substantial change, including a consistent supply of materials and a firm resolve to prevent their packaging from ending up in landfills or as litter.

For example, in December 2022, ExxonMobil announced the successful commencement of operations at its advanced recycling facility in Baytown, Texas. This facility offers commercial-grade, post-consumer recycled plastic resin and has the capacity to process up to 80 million pounds of plastic annually, equivalent to nearly 220,000 pounds per day. This translates to roughly 16 million plastic bags daily that can be transformed into new plastic bags or other products like toothpaste tubes and detergent bottles. Since its pilot operations commenced in 2021, the facility has already recycled almost 15 million pounds of plastic waste. The company plans to construct additional advanced recycling facilities worldwide in the near future, aiming to process up to 1 billion pounds of plastic each year, or nearly 2.75 million pounds per day.

In April 2018, the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) and several partner associations issued a letter to Capitol Hill, urging House majority and minority leaders to develop and promote an infrastructure investment package focused on enhancing recycling efforts and fostering innovation in the United States. This timely and urgent call for discussion underscores recent developments that have disrupted U.S. recycling programs, such as China's decisions to reduce or cease the importation of scrap material from other countries, coupled with the loss of valuable feedstock for American manufacturing when unrecycled material ends up in landfills.

Market Segmentation 

By Type

• The Polyester segment dominated the PCR Films and Foils market in 2022.
• The Polypropylene segment is the fastest growing segment, growing at a CAGR of XX% during the forecast period.

By Type, the global PCR Films and Foils market is divided into Polyolefin, Polypropylene, Polyester, Aluminium, Others. 

Polypropylene is a material of widespread utility, found in diverse sectors, including packaging, automotive, and consumer goods. Its ascent in popularity has been marked by its adaptability, longevity, and cost-efficiency. The growth of polypropylene has been substantial, propelled by advances in processing technologies and an augmented desire for eco-friendly and recyclable plastics. Conversely, Polyester, particularly in the form of PET (polyethylene terephthalate), has witnessed significant expansion, primarily fueled by the beverage and packaging industries. PET finds extensive application in bottling beverages such as water, soda, and juices, alongside its utilization in textiles and clothing. The clamor for sustainable and recycled PET materials has been experiencing an upswing

By Application 

• The Food Packaging segment dominated the PCR Films and Foils market in 2022.
• Pharmaceutical Packaging is the fastest growing segment, growing at a CAGR of XX% during the forecast period.

By application, the PCR Films and Foils market is divided into Food Packaging, Beverage Packaging, Pharmaceutical Packaging, Cosmetics packaging, and Others.

The food and beverage sector stands as a prominent adopter of PCR films and foils, with numerous companies within this industry displaying a growing commitment to sustainable packaging solutions. PCR films and foils find versatile applications in a diverse array of food products, spanning from snacks and dry goods to beverages. Conversely, in the healthcare and pharmaceutical Industry, there is an emerging trend toward the integration of PCR films and foils for packaging purposes, encompassing medical devices, over-the-counter medicines, and prescription drugs. Sustainability is progressively gaining significance within this sector as well.

By Region

• The Europe region dominated the PCR Films and Foils market in 2022.
• The APAC region is the fastest growing segment, growing at a CAGR of XX% during the forecast period.

By region, the global PCR Films and Foils market is divided into North America, Europe, APAC and Others. Others is further divided into Middle East, Africa and South America.

In 2022, the European region asserted its dominance in the PCR Films and Foils market, securing a substantial market share of XX%. Europe has been actively embracing the utilization of PCR materials across various applications, including films and foils. This is largely attributed to the region's stringent regulations and proactive initiatives aimed at promoting the use of recycled plastics.

Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region, bolstered by its expansive manufacturing capabilities, also played a significant role in the PCR materials market. However, the adoption of PCR films and foils within this region exhibited variances from one country to another. Some Asian nations, such as Japan and South Korea, embraced sustainable practices early on, while others were in the process of catching up.

Competitive Landscape

The global PCR Films and Foils market is consolidated with the presence of few major players contributing to the market revenue. This dominance of these major players is driven by their technological expertise, extensive resources, and established brand recognition. These companies typically PCR films and foils to end users.

Recent Developments

• In June 2023, Pregis® launched Pregis AirSpeed® Hybrid Cushioning (HC) Renew™ PCR, an innovative high-pressure air cushioning film comprised of 80 percent post-consumer recycled (PCR) content. This product breakthrough holds considerable significance for businesses aiming to enhance the sustainability of their protective packaging without compromising performance quality. As consumer environmental awareness continues to grow at each stage of the purchasing journey, the demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions is on the rise. HC Renew PCR addresses this demand by serving as an in-the-box shipping solution that delivers equivalent protection and durability to traditional air cushions while simultaneously reducing its environmental footprint.

PCR Films and Foils market Scope

Table of Contents

1 INTRODUCTION OF PCR FILMS AND FOILS MARKET

1.1 Overview of the Market

1.2 Scope of Report

1.3 Assumptions

2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 

3.1 Data Mining

3.2 Validation

3.3 Primary Interviews

3.4 List of Data Sources

4 PCR FILMS AND FOILS MARKET OUTLOOK

4.1 Overview

4.2 Market Dynamics

4.2.1 Drivers

4.2.2 Restraints

4.2.3 Opportunities

4.3 Porters Five Force Model

4.3.1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers

4.3.2. Threat of New Entrants

4.3.3. Threat of Substitutes

4.3.4. Competitive Rivalry

4.3.5. Bargaining Power among Buyers

4.4 Value Chain Analysis

5 PCR FILMS AND FOILS MARKET, BY TYPES

5.1 Overview

5.2 Polypropylene

5.3 Polyolefin

5.4 Aluminium

5.5 Polyester

5.6 Others

6 PCR FILMS AND FOILS MARKET, BY APPLICATION

6.1 Food Packaging

6.2 Beverage Packaging

6.3 Pharmaceutical Packaging

6.4 Cosmetics packaging

6.5 Others

7 PCR FILMS AND FOILS MARKET, By REGION

7.1 North America

7.1.1 U.S.

7.1.2 Canada

7.2 Europe

7.2.1 Germany

7.2.3 U.K.

7.2.4 France

7.2.5 Rest of Europe

7.3 Asia Pacific

7.3.1 China

7.3.2 Japan

7.3.3 India

7.3.4 South Korea

7.3.5 Singapore

7.3.6 Malaysia

7.3.7 Australia

7.3.8 Thailand

7.3.9 Indonesia

7.3.10 Philippines

7.3.11 Rest of Asia Pacific

7.4 Others

7.4.1 Saudi Arabia

7.4.2 U.A.E.

7.4.3 South Africa

7.4.4 Egypt

7.4.5 Israel

7.4.6 Rest of Middle East and Africa (MEA)

7.4.7 Brazil

7.4.8 Argentina

7.4.9 Mexico

7.4.10 Rest of South America

8 COMPANY PROFILES

8.1 Sealed Air Corporation

8.1.1. Company Overview

8.1.2. Key Executives

8.1.3. Operating Business Segments

8.1.4. Product Portfolio

8.1.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.1.6 Key News

8.2 Eppendrof

8.2.1. Company Overview

8.2.2. Key Executives

8.2.3. Operating Business Segments

8.2.4. Product Portfolio

8.2.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.2.6. Key News

8.3 Uflex Limited

8.3.1. Company Overview

8.3.2. Key Executives

8.3.3. Operating Business Segments

8.3.4. Product Portfolio

8.3.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.3.6. Key News

8.4 Jindal Poly Films

8.4.1. Company Overview

8.4.2. Key Executives

8.4.3. Operating Business Segments

8.4.4. Product Portfolio

8.4.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.4.6. Key News

8.5 Novolex

8.5.1. Company Overview

8.5.2. Key Executives

8.5.3. Operating Business Segments

8.5.4. Product Portfolio

8.5.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.5.6. Key News

8.6 Taghleef Industries LLC

8.6.1. Company Overview

8.6.2. Key Executives

8.6.3. Operating Business Segments

8.6.4. Product Portfolio

8.6.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.6.6. Key News

8.7 Graham Packaging

8.7.1. Company Overview

8.7.2. Key Executives

8.7.3. Operating Business Segments

8.7.4. Product Portfolio

8.7.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.7.6. Key News

8.8 Berry Global Group, Inc

8.8.1. Company Overview

8.8.2. Key Executives

8.8.3. Operating Business Segments

8.8.4. Product Portfolio

8.8.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.8.6. Key News

8.9 Mondi plc

8.9.1. Company Overview

8.9.2. Key Executives

8.9.3. Operating Business Segments

8.9.4. Product Portfolio

8.9.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.9.6. Key News

8.10 Borealis AG

8.10.1. Company Overview

8.10.2. Key Executives

8.10.3. Operating Business Segments

8.10.4. Product Portfolio

8.10.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.10.6. Key News

8.11 Constantia Flexibles

8.11.1. Company Overview

8.11.2. Key Executives

8.11.3. Operating Business Segments

8.11.4. Product Portfolio

8.11.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.11.6. Key News

8.12  Amcor plc

8.12.1. Company Overview

8.12.2. Key Executives

8.12.3. Operating Business Segments

8.12.4. Product Portfolio

8.12.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.12.6. Key News

8.13 Tekni-Plex

8.13.1. Company Overview

8.13.2. Key Executives

8.13.3. Operating Business Segments

8.13.4. Product Portfolio

8.13.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.13.6. Key News

8.14  Biopointe Scientific

8.14.1. Company Overview

8.14.2. Key Executives

8.14.3. Operating Business Segments

8.14.4. Product Portfolio

8.14.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.14.6. Key News

8.15 Thermo Fisher

8.15.1. Company Overview

8.15.2. Key Executives

8.15.3. Operating Business Segments

8.15.4. Product Portfolio

8.15.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.15.6. Key News

8.16 PlateSeal

8.16.1. Company Overview

8.16.2. Key Executives

8.16.3. Operating Business Segments

8.16.4. Product Portfolio

8.16.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.16.6. Key News

8.17 Huhtamaki

8.17.1. Company Overview

8.17.2. Key Executives

8.17.3. Operating Business Segments

8.17.4. Product Portfolio

8.17.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.17.6. Key News

8.18 Placon Corporation

8.18.1. Company Overview

8.18.2. Key Executives

8.18.3. Operating Business Segments

8.18.4. Product Portfolio

8.18.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.18.6. Key News

8.19 Inteplast Group

8.19.1. Company Overview

8.19.2. Key Executives

8.19.3. Operating Business Segments

8.19.4. Product Portfolio

8.19.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.19.6. Key News

8.20 Innovia Film

8.20.1. Company Overview

8.20.2. Key Executives

8.20.3. Operating Business Segments

8.20.4. Product Portfolio

8.20.5. Financial Performance (As per availability)

8.20.6. Key News

Global PCR Films and Foils Market Segmentation

PCR Films and Foils by Type: Market Size & Forecast 2023-2030

• Polyolefin
• Polypropylene
• Polyester
• Aluminium
• Others

PCR Films and Foils by Application: Market Size & Forecast 2023-2030

• Food Packaging
• Beverage Packaging
• Pharmaceutical Packaging
• Cosmetics Packaging
• Others

PCR Films and Foils by Geography: Market Size & Forecast 2023-2030

• North America (USA, Canada, Mexico)
• Europe (Germany, UK, France, Russia, Italy, Rest of Europe)
• Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, South Korea, India, Southeast Asia, Rest of Asia-Pacific)
• South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Rest of South America)
• Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa, Rest of MEA)

Major Players:

• Innovia Film
• Inteplast Group
• Placon Corporation
• Huhtamaki
• PlateSeal
• Thermo Fisher
• Biopointe Scientific
• Tekni-Plex
• Amcor plc
• Constantia Flexibles
• Borealis AG
• Mondi plc
• Berry Global Group, Inc
• Graham Packaging
• Taghleef Industries LLC
• Novolex
• Jindal Poly Films
• Uflex Limited
• Eppendrof
• Sealed Air Corporation